stoplight
stoplight Lexical Profile
stoplight Game Scores & Validity
• noun
North American A visual signaling device positioned at road intersections, pedestrian crossings, and other locations to control the flow of traffic, typically displaying red, yellow, and green lights.
"We were delayed on our drive to the airport because we hit every red stoplight through the downtown area."
North American The red light specifically on a traffic signal indicating that vehicles must come to a complete halt.
"He received a citation for accelerating through the intersection after the signal had already turned to a stoplight."
A red light on the rear of a motor vehicle that illuminates when the brakes are applied.
"The mechanic noticed that the left stoplight on the delivery truck was burned out and needed immediate replacement."
• Rhymes for stoplight
Word Origin & Etymology
Coined in the early 20th century in the United States, formed as a compound of 'stop' and 'light', reflecting the device's primary function of halting automobile traffic to regulate intersection safety.
Usage Trend
Historical frequency of usage in published text.